Committee candidate a no-show at Wantage meetings

If Mr. Williams’ accounting of his accomplishments is accurate, why would he choose to sprinkle some untruths in the mix?

I don’t think anyone can honestly dispute the Recreation Commission has come a long way, and Mr. Williams should take credit for his vision and efforts, but “navigating local government” in accomplishing that achievement is a huge stretch.

Mr. Williams should have omitted any reference of his service on two “blue ribbon” commissions regarding the Sussex Airport and the Lake Neepaulin Dam. Citizens who attend committee meetings on a regular basis see the amount of Wantage taxpayer dollars wasted on attorney fees. Former Committeeman/Mayor Jeff Parrott’s history of sticking Wantage’s nose where it didn’t belong has been very costly to Wantage taxpayers, and neither project is yet fully resolved.

I want to know Mr. Williams’ position on Wantage taxpayers being on the hook for $1 million plus interest on the repairs of a privately-owned Lake Neepaulin dam.

Mr. Williams talks a good talk. He says he “enjoys the political process; it is important we get involved and be a part of the needed change.” Really? Those are fighting words to citizens who have been attending meetings regularly for years, hearing municipal business first-hand, offering criticism and praise, writing letters to the editor and doing their share in making the committee accountable and Wantage a better place. With the exception of only once in well over a year when he appeared at a recent budget meeting requesting more than the budgeted amount for the Recreation Committee, Mr. Williams has been a no-show at committee meetings.

I share his concern about high property taxes and job creation. That’s why I attend Land Use Board meetings, but once again, Mr. Williams is a no-show. In fairness, Committeemen Gaechter and Bassani inherited a “bad scene.” Implementing change is usually unpopular and a difficult process. One of Mr. Williams’ supporters, a former construction official, resigned under a dark cloud; another was eased out and replaced by a qualified, humble and helpful construction official about whom I have not heard a single complaint.

Of course, experience is an asset, but simple honesty without misrepresentations or inaccurate embellishments is what caring and concerned citizens seek in a candidate and their committee.

Ann Smulewicz
Wantage